Eating Disorder Treatment Center

Spirituality and Eating Disorder Treatment at Canopy Cove

What do you mean when you say that Canopy Cove is a Christian-based program?

Canopy Cove has been a Christian-based program since our creation in 1990. For us, that means that we believe in Christ, and also believe that He has a purpose for each of us. We pray for His guidance in our day-to-day work with our clients and believe that Canopy Cove is a God-led treatment center that will always provide care for those struggling with Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorders.

Personally, I see God’s influence in my life and His role in the origination of Canopy Cove. In the Eighties, I was happily working as a psychologist and diabetes educator and believed that I had fulfilled my career dreams. Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorders and their treatment was not anything I thought about. However, just when I thought I had things figured out and my practice was established, I realized that my current focus was only part of the whole picture. treating-eating-disorders-spiritually

This became evident as people with Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorders began scheduling to see me. I immediately recognized that I was unprepared to effectively help these individuals. So, as any competent therapist would do, I looked for a referral for these clients. But I was unsuccessful and could find no one in our area; eventually I recognized that my new journey would be to help these people reclaim their lives. So, for the past 23 years I have passionately treated those with eating disorders across the continuum from the most restrictive form of Anorexia, to the extreme laxative abuse of Bulimia, to the excessive, out-of-control feelings experienced during binge eating.

Spirituality at Canopy Cove

Most people who struggle with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating or other eating disorders have lost their sense of focus and identity. Their senses have been masked and their spirituality has frequently been compromised. We have seen this to be true whether someone is a Christian, is a believer of another defined religion, Agnostic, or an Atheist.

It is our goal to help these individuals regain a sense of identity and purpose that is not defined through Anorexia, Bulimia, or other eating disorders. As Staff, we include our Christian beliefs in an attempt to understand the struggles of day to day life with an eating disorder, and in developing treatment plans. Our Seminary trained Christian counselors work with all of our clients and include music and art therapy as interventions to help them explore and define their personal beliefs.

Our day begins with a structured session that allows for quiet time or prayer, and inspirational readings. These readings are selected from various approved sources that include the Bible. Additionally, we offer a series of Christian-based videos that are positive and inspiring regardless of one’s religious beliefs. We provide a quiet time before each meal and snack that may include a moment of reverence for grounding or a verbal prayer by participants, if they choose, or by Staff.

However, we allow each client to participate at the level they choose and do not insist that they accept our beliefs, yet, many people tell us that they come to Canopy Cove because of their preference for a Christian program. Others tell us that during their treatment at Canopy Cove they rediscovered their faith that been pushed aside. Another common experience that is shared is the realization of the importance of spirituality or religion in one’s everyday life.

What about church? Will I have to go?

Attending a non-denominational Church Service on Sunday is part of Canopy Cove’s program and each client is asked to go. However, the only expectation we have is that everyone focus on something positive from their experience, yet, they are not asked to fully participate in the service. Most often our clients look forward to the Church Service and I cannot remember a time when anyone did not want to attend. A process session follows our Church attendance during which each person shares whatever they choose regarding their experience.

Another spirituality component offered at Canopy Cove is our Cowgirl/Cowboy Church. This is a special on-site Church experience that includes our equine team members; it is usually enjoyed by all.

Questions? Concerns? Feel free to call us at 888-245-6555 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Medicare/Medicaid (Note: Medicare does not typically offer coverage for this type of treatment. However, we are able to work with certain Medicare providers, such as Cenpatico, through a single case agreement.)